Our goal is to identify and design nanomanufacturing approaches for electrode materials; to investigate how nanostructured electrodes can improve the charge storage and conversion performances for energy devices; and use this understanding to promote research and education in the fields of nano- and energy-science and technology. Dr. Lee has made significant contributions to nanostructured electrodes for various electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems, including lithium rechargeable batteries, supercapacitors, fuel-cells, and water-electrolyzers. In particular, he has pioneered high-performance nanostructured electrodes using the surface redox reactions for advanced lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors.

Cost-effective and high-performance electrochemical energy storage devices can increase the fuel efficiency of new transportation technologies, including start-stop vehicle, (plug-in) hybrid electric vehicle, all-electric vehicle, and heavy machinery, which can significantly reduce energy imports and greenhouse gases. In addition, reliable large-scale energy storage and conversion technologies are particularly attractive for renewable energy storage due to their high efficiency, short charge/discharge time, and long cycle life. Moreover, the rapid evolution of flexible and wearable electronic devices requires multi-functional microscale power sources that have high power density, high energy density, long cycle life, and flexibility. Dr. Lee’s research in these areas has already shown visible impacts on the development of cost-effective, high-performance, and multi-functional electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems.